Cost of Living in the Czech Republic

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The cost of living in the Czech Republic has quickly risen in the last few years. Prague ranked 56th out of 226 cities in Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey, in the neighbourhood of Hamburg and Milan. This is down 23 places from the city's 2023 ranking of 33rd. As with anywhere in the world, a few things don't come so cheap – entertainment and healthcare among them.

Cost of accommodation in the Czech Republic

Although housing costs are rising, the cost of accommodation and utilities in the Czech Republic is similar to that of the rest of Europe. Accommodation in Prague, particularly, is more in demand and therefore pricier than in smaller towns or cities. Suburbs and districts further from the city centre are mostly more affordable, but this comes with less access to the amenities and buzz of city living.

Moreover, tenants must account for the initial costs of renting, which include a security deposit of between one and two months' rent. Those who will be using a real estate agent will also need to pay their agent at least one month's rent as a commission. You should also budget for monthly utility fees, which are usually not included in the rental price.

Cost of transport in the Czech Republic

You won't likely find transport in the Czech Republic a significant expense, as both public transport and petrol are relatively cheap. You can purchase a small car at a reasonable price, although thanks to a well-developed, reliable and inexpensive public transport system, many expats (especially those living in Prague) may find this isn't necessary.

There are various passes available for the public transport system in the Czech Republic, and you can get excellent value for money if you buy a monthly pass and use public transport regularly. Students and seniors are eligible for discounted passes.

Cost of groceries and clothing in the Czech Republic

Groceries are not expensive in the Czech Republic, and you'll spend much less on food than you are used to if you're from Western Europe or the United States. Some typical grocery stores in the Czech Republic include Tesco, Billa and Albert. Exploring local markets and shopping at discount supermarkets can also help you save on food expenses.

Clothing is one of the few expensive items in the Czech Republic. While apparel, especially brand-name items, can be costly, you can seek alternative shopping options for more affordable clothing. Local markets and second-hand stores often have a selection of reasonably priced clothing, and shopping during seasonal sales can result in significant savings.

Cost of eating out and entertainment in the Czech Republic

Eating out at restaurants in the Czech Republic costs around the same as in the rest of Europe. Alcohol and tobacco, on the other hand, are less expensive, especially the locally brewed beer for which the country is renowned.

If you enjoy dining out but are conscious of your budget, exploring local food stalls, markets or cafés is an excellent way to experience traditional Czech cuisine without breaking the bank. Street food vendors and local cafés offer delicious meals at a fraction of the price of traditional restaurants. Additionally, you can look for free or low-cost entertainment options, such as cultural events, festivals and outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, to make the most of your leisure time without incurring high costs.

Cost of education in the Czech Republic

Public education in the Czech Republic is cheap, but because of the language barrier, most expats send their children to private or international schools that teach in English or are bilingual. These schools cost more but have smaller classes and an expanded slate of extracurricular activities.

If you're moving for work purposes, negotiate an education allowance with your employer as part of your employment package. It is also worth researching available scholarships, bursaries or financial assistance programmes. Some schools offer qualifying students merit-based scholarships or financial aid, which can significantly reduce your financial burden.

Cost of healthcare in the Czech Republic

The cost of healthcare in the Czech Republic can vary greatly depending on the types of services that you require and whether you opt for public or private healthcare facilities. The country's comprehensive public healthcare system is funded through mandatory health insurance contributions, ensuring that all legal residents, including expats, can access essential medical services for a reasonable cost. On the other hand, language barriers can sometimes make it difficult for you to fully benefit from public healthcare services, and waiting times can be lengthy for some procedures.

To overcome these challenges, many expats in the Czech Republic choose to utilise private healthcare facilities, which often offer higher-quality services and shorter waiting times. However, the costs associated with private healthcare can be significantly higher than those found in the public system. As a result, you should secure comprehensive private health insurance that covers private medical treatment and any necessary repatriation expenses.